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Shrewsbury Flaxmill funding

I am delighted that the Shrewsbury Flaxmill has secured £7.9 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund, this will enable work to continue on this iconic building. Previous funding from the European Regional Development Fund and Historic England has brought about the opening of an interactive visitor centre and education facility within the Office and Stable buildings. Now, with lottery money the focus will be on restoring the Grade 1 listed Main Mill and Grade 2 listed Kiln. These are both currently on the Heritage at Risk Register and the work being undertaken will remove them from the register and make them usable buildings once again.

The Main Mill is of international architectural importance being the oldest iron framed building in the world, constructed in 1797 and is the forerunner to all modern skyscrapers. It has taken an awful lot of work from all involved to get to this point - I’ve lost count how many meetings I’ve had with Ministers, architects and Historic England to try and get things moving. The Friends of the Flaxmill have also been integral in getting to this point, showing the vision and the passion to make sure the building’s historic relevance is maintained for future generations. Historic England will look to begin work this spring. Four floors of space will be made available for commercial use and a café will be created that the Friends of the Flaxmill Maltings will manage.

I continue to do all I can for my constituents if you feel I can be of any assistance please don’t hesitate to contact my office on 01743 233 646.